The GAA/GPA Opel All-Star have announced Joe Canning (Galway, Hurling) and Karl Lacey (Donegal, Football) as Players of the Month for August, 2012. The award recognise the individual contribution of both players during championship matches last month. Joe Canning was awarded Man of the Match against Cork. Karl Lacey made his 100th appearance against Cork and has been a three time All-Star.

Commenting on the announcement, Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael, Liam Ó Néill said: “Both Joe and Karl served up performances to savour with Galway and Donegal respectively playing crucial roles in those counties’ performances against Cork (Hurling) and (Football). These accolades are well deserved, well done to both and thanks to Opel for their continued support of an award scheme that allows our players to acknowledge excellence.”

Dessie Farrell, CEO of the Gaelic Players Association added: “Congratulations to Joe and Karl for their outstanding achievements in being acknowledged by their fellow players for their displays last month. While as always both will point to their team-mates, it is nonetheless important to recognise when the individual player excels in pursuit of the collective cause. Thanks to all the players who voted and to our sponsors Opel for their continued support of the awards and our players.”

Commenting on the announcement, Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland, said, “Opel are proud to be associated with Gaelic Games and the GAA GPA All Star Awards. We are delighted to reward Opel Kit for Clubs Brand Ambassador Joe Canning and Donegal’s Karl Lacey, it is fantastic to see the GAA GPA All Stars Awards sponsored by Opel go to two such deserving winners for August and we wish them the best of luck in the All Ireland Finals.”